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Dartmoor Gliding News-Sunday 19th November 2017

For those up early to earn some brownie points, collecting the papers from
Yelverton, this was the sunrise that greeted them. Hopefully it was a good sign
for the day to come. Unlike weekends previous, we were able to extricate the
aircraft from the hangar and get them ready for a busy days flying.

Sunrise over Dartmoor

The day was spent giving check flights for those out of currency. First up
was Dave Downton. After a couple of flights including a cable break practice he
was declared fit to fly the K8. Next up was Mark Jerman who after regaining his
solo wings yesterday had a quick flight with me. With no problems he then
squeezed himself and wellies into the K8 for a couple of flights. Third on the
list was Martin Cropper to regain his wings after his period away from flying. A
perfectly executed simulated cable break declared him fit to resume instructing
duties.

Martin about to get his wings back

So fourth on the list, Ed Borlase took to the air with Martin. After a couple
of flights he added to his solo total, closing in on that time when he will
hopefully be able to convert to the K8.
There was also a busy day for IFP pilots Richard Roberts and Roger Applebloom
with four visitors.

First to arrive was Jamie Malac who flew with Richard.

Jamie Malac with Richard

Richard’s second trial flight charge was Anthony Welsh who enjoyed his two
flights. Anthony has previously tried ballooning and wanted to try gliding while
still young. He is hoping to bring his brother (an ex lightning pilot) up for a
more leisurely flight around the sky.

Anthony Welsh

It was then a change of guard with Richard taking over winch duties from
Roger who then took over the back seat of HXP. Mike Arbury arrived with his
family for his flights with Roger.

Mark Arbury

Last on the list was Tim Stoneman who had one flight with Roger. With Colin
Boyd disappearing into cloud at about700’ it was decided to stop flying and
return the gliders to the hangar. Tim will have to return at a later date for
his second flight, hopefully in better conditions.

Tim Stoneman

After the past month with little flying it was good to fly again and get
everybody back current. Let’s hope for some settled weather over the coming
weekends.